Rough sleepers moved on from Waterloo’s IMAX subways and Leake Street

During the operation rubbish and cardboard boxes were removed, contaminated areas were washed down and information about nine rough sleepers was collected and shared with Lambeth's street outreach team.

"I was impressed by the professionalism and respect the South Bank Patrol demonstrated when engaging with homeless people," said Adam Loxley, security manager at the South Bank Employers' Group which runs the South Bank Patrol service.

"Over the coming months, I look forward to building on the success in reducing homelessness in the South Bank by supporting specific and targeted operations with Lambeth Council and the police."

• The pedestrian subways around the BFI IMAX were once part of London's notorious 'Cardboard City'. A new short film set at the Bullring – Tax City – will be premiered next week.